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Prepare Your Skin for the Upcoming Winter

Fall is in full swing and the temperature is quickly dropping. With the air getting cooler and dryer, we’re here to make sure your skin doesn’t. These are some helpful hints to keep your skin healthy and moisturized this season.

Wearing sunscreen is just as important in the winter as it is in the summer. UVA and UVB rays stay strong throughout the year, and without proper skin protection, can contribute to rapid skin aging. Add extra protection on snow days – UV radiation reflects 55 percent stronger off of snow than off sand.

The heat indoors can be more drying than the cold outdoors. Space heaters, open fireplaces, and wood-burning ovens dry the air’s humidity. Invest in a humidifier to help protect your skin indoors, too.

Everyone loves a hot shower on a cold, winter morning. However, scalding water can do more harm than good by removing natural oils from the skin. Best practices are to use warm water, limit showers to five to ten minutes and pat dry your face when drying off.

Using moisturizer and lip balm consistently, especially overnight, is another essential winter practice. Buyer beware: thick lotions are not necessarily more moisturizing. Get in the habit of checking the ingredients on the lotion’s labels. Hyaluronic and lactic acid are especially effective.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at (865)690-9467 to book an appointment.

3 Quick Non-Surgical Fixes To Look Your Best

If you desire to look more youthful and feel better about yourself in 2020, we can help with these three quick and easy in-office cosmetic treatments.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable gels that work by rebuilding the collagen in our skin, immediately restoring your natural and youthful appearance. You’ll look like you did 5-7 years ago, but no one will know! There are a variety of dermal fillers that we offer, and based on your skin type and desires, our board-certified dermatologists will determine the best one(s) for your skin needs. No matter which dermal filler is chosen, you will notice immediate results from a quick in-office visit! The most popular dermal fillers are the Juvederm and Restylane collections, which offer specific varieties to address the most common natural aging skin concerns, including facial lines and wrinkles, deflated lips, vertical lines around the lips, marionette lines around the mouth, deep nasolabial folds, hollowed cheeks, under-eye circles, and sagging jowls around the jawline.

Botox Cosmetic & Dysport Wrinkle Reducers

Botox is one of the most sought-after cosmetic treatments today. It is most commonly used to temporarily improve the appearance of facial fine lines and wrinkles. Areas treated include crow’s feet around the eyes, eleven lines in the glabellar area between the brows, horizontal forehead lines, and laugh lines on your face. These wrinkles are creases in the skin due to making the same expression thousands of times over your lifetime. The great news is that Botox and Dysport work within a week to ten days after injection to help soften and smooth your skin’s appearance, lasting for 3 to 4 months.

Our goal is to take a more natural approach, injecting “sprinkles” and “baby Botox” techniques to avoid the frozen look. Combined with dermal fillers, Botox and Dysport can easily take years off your appearance, restoring your natural beauty and boosting your self-esteem.

In order to offer our patients the best pricing for dermal fillers and wrinkle-reducing treatments, we offer two manufacturers’ rewards programs to help you earn dollars off treatment costs. Anne Arundel Dermatology and our affiliate offices partner with both Allergan’s Brilliant Distinctions Program and Galderma’s Aspire Rewards, which are designed to help you feel supported through your aesthetic journey with Juvederm and Botox or Restylane and Dysport treatments.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are ideal for treating and improving the effects of aging, photo-damaged skin, fine lines and wrinkles, brown age spots, superficial scarring, acne, and melasma. Our licensed medical aestheticians and nurses apply a chemical solution, a salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acid, based on your skin type. The top skin layers are peeled away, allowing new, smoother, and tighter skin to come to the surface. This minimally invasive facial treatment achieves an improved appearance, more even skin tone and texture, and overall, a beautiful, healthy glow. In order to achieve a moreover full effect, we recommend regular treatments, which can occur within three to four weeks of each subsequent treatment.

Update Your Sun Safety – Tips to follow this Summer

Update Your Sun Safety – Tips to follow this Summer

One in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer before the age of 70. While we all enjoy being outdoors during this fun and relaxing time of year, dermatologists are compelled to encourage our patients to practice sun safety in order to reduce the health risks associated with the summer sun. While the most common forms of skin cancer can be cured with surgery, some forms of skin cancer, such as melanoma, can be deadly.

There are a number of critical steps that can be taken to protect oneself from the sun’s damaging rays during these summer months.

Steps to follow:

  • Your sunscreen should have an SPF of 30 or higher, should be water-resistant and provide broad-spectrum coverage.
    Apply sunscreen 15-20 minutes before going outside. It takes time for the sunscreen to fully absorb into the skin.
  • Use One (1) ounce (approximately one full shot glass) of sunscreen. One ounce is needed to cover all exposed areas of the body.
  • Just because you apply a higher SPF, it doesn’t mean you can stay in the sun longer or reapply less often.
  • Toss your sunscreen after a year. Expired lotion doesn’t provide proper protection because the chemicals become inactive over time.
  • Don’t forget your ears, scalp, lips, and the tops of your feet. These areas are very prone to sunburn and, ultimately, skin cancer.
  • Use sunscreen specifically designed for the face. Your facial skin can be more sensitive to irritation and face sunscreens account for that.
  • If using a spray sunscreen, remember to rub it in, and then spray again to ensure there are no missed spots.
    Use products containing zinc oxide and titanium oxide for sensitive skin. These ingredients are safest to use in young children and infants.
  • Reapply every 80 minutes, even if you’re using a water-resistant formula. This is just as important as applying it initially.
    Wear protective clothing that is made with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) fabric. It indicates what fraction of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can penetrate the fabric. Many styles and types of fabrics are available that can be comfortable, look great, and keep the skin protected.
  • Look for wide-brimmed hats and high-quality sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
    In addition to these sun safety measures, check your skin every few months and see a dermatologist if you notice anything changing, growing or bleeding/not healing. Our professionals are dedicated to helping you remain active, vital, youthful, and, above all, healthy.

Importance of Skin Checks

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, medical offices are back to being fully open for healthcare needs. While it is always important, the start of Summer is a perfect reminder to practice sun safety. While most of the country was in some stay at home order, many people canceled or skipped their annual skin cancer screening.

Dr. Richard Pfau, a co-founder of Anne Arundel Dermatology and its Affiliates, states: ‘in these unprecedented times, it is still important that people do not put off potentially lifesaving skin cancer screenings. On average, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Getting screenings regularly allows for early detection, and most skin cancers are highly treatable when detected early.’ It is important to schedule your annual skin cancer screenings as the Summer months approach, so our providers can proactively help with any skin damage or findings that may need to be addressed further.

Previously, the American Cancer Society had encouraged patients to postpone their nonessential screenings. Now, they have changed their response to the coronavirus pandemic. The American Cancer Society is now urging patients to return to seeking cancer screenings if they feel safe about visiting their health care providers.

While skin cancer can be highly treatable when detected early, some forms of skin cancer can be life-threatening – and putting off your dermatology appointment could put your life at risk. The State Government stated in May that elective procedures are now able to be resumed. From this, our offices have taken additional steps to protect our patients (link: safety and protocols page) while they are in our offices.

We put your safety first. As medical professionals, we are trained to place our patients’ well-being and safety above all else. That commitment to your health and safety is driving every decision made during this challenging time.

Steps We Are Taking To Protect Our Patients

Steps We Are Taking To Protect Our Patients

As medical professionals, we are trained to place the well-being and safety of our patients above all else, and that commitment to your health and safety is driving every decision made during this challenging time. We are closely monitoring all developments related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19), and we are strictly adhering to all guidelines issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and our local and state governments.

Our pledge to patients is to be here for care you know is essential. Patients and practices are free to elect necessary medical services and procedures that may have been delayed. We will continue to provide a safe and comforting office experience for all patients needing dermatologic services.

Though restrictions are easing, we remain committed to ongoing safety and prevention of illness transmission. You need to know what our clinic sites are doing to protect everyone:

  • Everyone must wear a face mask. Patients may wear cloth masks and should have them on when they come into the office. Masks are required for adults and minor patients as outlined in executive orders from our governors. Wearing a mask may prevent the spread of small droplets, so please follow our lead and wear a mask throughout the visit whenever possible.
  • Everyone must wash hands or use hand sanitizer when entering and leaving the office. Please use the sanitizer provided, as you see our staff and providers doing. It is the most helpful prevention measure in the infection control arsenal! Hand sanitizer, tissues, and lined trash receptacles may be found in every waiting area and clinic room for use by our patients.
  • Patients must be screened at each visit for fever and flu symptoms. We perform the same screenings for every staff member, every day. Anyone with a fever or flu symptoms will be asked to reschedule the appointment. Patients with special risk, such as persons over 65 or persons with chronic health conditions, may wish to stay at home and use our convenient telehealth program.
  • Patients will notice posters at the office about COVID-19. These are meant to educate and advise about how to limit the spread of the virus. Every member of our staff has also received CDC generated written educational information about COVID-19, and about personal protective equipment. Policies and postings are changed as guidelines evolve.
  • Special physical distancing measures are now being taken, so please be patient with us when we do not get close to you or shake your hand. Please understand when we limit numbers in reception areas or we ask you to wait in the car to prevent office congestion. Please do not bring children under 12 or any others with you when you come for a visit. No one other than the patient and a required caregiver may be in the office. Sometimes these safety practices will add to the time it takes to complete your visit. Thanks for your understanding that our practices are meant to keep you safe and healthy.
    We have always prided ourselves on a clean, safe office environment. Now more than ever, cleaning and disinfection is of paramount importance. EPA registered cleaning materials are used frequently throughout the day on all surfaces in exam rooms, waiting areas, labs, and office spaces. High touch surfaces like door handles, exam chairs and tables, and restrooms are given special attention.
  • Our waiting areas no longer offer magazines, pamphlets, or children’s toys, since those items are difficult to clean and disinfect.

Be assured we remain fully prepared to evaluate and care for all of our patients, and we are taking all possible precautions to protect our patients, their families, our staff, and our communities. Thank you for your support and cooperation with these efforts as, together, we face this unprecedented public health challenge.

How Winter Weather Affects Your Skin

The cold, dry winter months effect all skin types, but what if you are already suffering from a condition? It is important to be proactive to understand how the winter weather affects your skin condition. Here are some common skin conditions, how the weather affects it and how to better manage the symptoms.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic condition that causes the face to become inflamed and remain red for an extended period of time. This can be a frustrating condition; however, it causes no internal health issues. In the winter months, your skin can be especially delicate as it fights against the harsh temperatures and conditions. Try to keep your skin covered from the elements. Wearing a scarf is a great idea, as you can pull it up to cover your nose and cheeks as you trek to your destination. It’s important to stick to your treatment plan. However, if you are experiencing more intense flushing, start applying a heavy moisturizer and talk to your dermatologist about adding something seasonal to your treatment regimen.

Psoriasis

Phototherapy and spending time in the sunlight are common psoriasis treatments. The condition causes a buildup of skin cells that leave scaly, raised patches. In addition to the patches, psoriasis can also cause small, red bumps that cover different areas of the body. Decreased exposure to sunlight can play a huge role in the increased intensity of the condition during winter months. Try talking to your doctor about phototherapy, a new psoriasis treatment, to supplement for the time lost in the natural sunlight. Another reason for the condition worsening is the dry weather. A lack of humidity in the air can cause dry skin. A way to add moisture back into the air is to use a humidifier in your home, allowing your skin to drink in a bit more hydration.

Eczema

The skin condition, eczema is commonly seen as red, irritated and bumpy skin. It is often itchy and uncomfortable. Although it is not treatable, eczema is easily managed. However, in the winter, flare-ups occur more often causing heightened symptoms due to rapid temperature changes, especially when coming indoors from a cold day. To help avoid a reaction that may cause your skin to inflame, it is important to regulate your temperature as best possible. Try keeping your heater at a low setting. While it may seem nice to walk into an incredibly warm house after being in the cold, keeping your heater at a lower setting helps your skin acclimate to the temperature more easily.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Similar to dandruff, but with more serious implications, seborrheic dermatitis causes a red, burning scalp with flakes. However, unlike dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis can appear on your body anywhere hair is present. The dryness of the winter can cause your condition to worsen, but be sure to still follow your treatment plan. Don’t use hot water when showering, but instead use lukewarm water so your scalp does not become inflamed. Try adding a humidifier in your home so your scalp stays moisturized without adding extra products to your hair or increasing oil production.

You can’t change the weather, but you can change up your daily routine by adding some simple items to your home treatment regimen. If your skin condition is beginning to worsen, it may be caused by the weather. Talk to your dermatologist about changes in your condition and ask about different treatment options. If you suffer from one of the conditions listed above, the dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group are ready to help. Visit our website or give us a call to schedule an appointment at 865-690-9467.

The Guide to Cosmetic Lasers and Laser Hair Skin Treatments

The Guide to Cosmetic Lasers and Laser Hair Skin Treatments

The Guide to Cosmetic Lasers and Laser Hair Skin Treatments

People are always on the hunt for what will keep them looking younger. Laser skin treatments are not a new trend but seem to have gained popularity over recent years. Lasers are not a one-size-fits-all treatment, but there is a treatment out there for everyone.

How Does it Work?

Lasers use light energy to resurface the skin. This light energy is very precise, and targets damaged skin cells while preserving healthy skin cells.  Along with protecting the healthy skin cells, laser skin procedures also stimulate collagen growth.

Laser Treatments can help improve:

  • skin tone and texture
  • fine lines and wrinkles
  • acne scars
  • sun-damaged skin
  • unwanted hair
  • unwanted tattoos
  • birthmarks
  • uneven skin tone
  • spider veins

Importance of Laser Treatments

Collagen production decreases as we age. This loss in collagen production leads to those pesky wrinkles and fine lines.  Laser skin resurfacing treatments are proven to help improve those fine lines and promote overall collagen stimulation. Along with treating fine lines and wrinkles, laser treatments can also target different pigments. Lasers can treat brown and red spots and improve melasma.

While most people associate lasers with cosmetic procedures, lasers have been instrumental in helping to treat certain skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, and even skin cancer. Laser light therapy is combined with topical agents to treat skin cancer and precancerous lesions.

Winter Skincare Tips

Winter Skincare Tips

It’s no secret that colder temps and the winter season wreak havoc on your skin. The heat you turn up to stay warm and toasty significantly dries out your skin and the frigid temperatures outside cause more dryness and cracking. To save your skin until you can crawl out of another wintery season, here are some tips to ensure you have happy and healthy skin heading into the spring and summer. dry skin treated in Kent Island, Glen Burnie, Annapolis, Leonardtown, Prince Frederick, MD

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize. It’s imperative that you find a moisturizing product that adds a protective layer to help keep the moisture in your skin. Be sure to apply lotion and moisturizers regularly to any part of your body that may interact with cold air. For a facial moisturizer, ensure you choose a non-pore clogging (noncomedogenic) product so as not to cause breakouts.

Helping Hands. The skin on your hands is thinner and therefore more susceptible to dryness and cracking. Ensure you cover them up when heading outside with gloves or mittens and keep them well-moisturized.

Invest in a Humidifier. A humidifier rehydrates the air within your home and helps to keep your skin from drying out by redistributing the moisture evenly. Humidifiers are typically inexpensive and help to keep you and your skin healthy during the winter months.

Cut Showers Short. Long, hot showers, though relaxing and enjoyable, strip your skin of the natural oils that maintain your skin’s moisture. Help keep your skin’s natural defenses in check by shortening your showers and turning down the hot water.

The winter months are also a great opportunity to make an appointment with your dermatologist for an annual skin check-up.

What is a Pediatric Dermatologist?

What is a Pediatric Dermatologist?

Imagine this: a child has a pesky patch of skin that no matter how many times a pediatrician sees the rash, it does not seem to be improving. It might be time to visit a Pediatric Dermatologist.

Pediatric dermatologic care focuses on skin conditions that affect infants, children, and adolescents. Skin changes are frequent in children. A Pediatric Dermatologist has the qualifications to understand these changes and provide medical care as needed.

Pediatric Dermatologists treat many skin conditions prone to children: skin infections, moles, birthmarks, hives, psoriasis, cysts, rashes, acne, and warts. Additionally, Pediatric Dermatologists are trained to consider children’s individual needs. They help children feel comfortable as they are examined and treated.

Children cannot always say what is bothering them, and they cannot always answer medical questions and be asked to wait and sit patiently. That is why it is essential to see a Pediatric Dermatologist.

Pediatric Dermatologists have specialized training to recognize normal growth and development, and when to worry. Some medical disorders, such as infantile hemangioma blood vessel growths, are not found in adults – only infants and children.

Similarly, with psoriasis, it affects children differently and may show different symptoms that only a Pediatric Dermatologist would recognize. Pediatric Dermatologists are also expertly trained in pediatric medication management.

At Knoxville Dermatology Group, we have providers who are trained in Pediatric Dermatology. To schedule an appointment, please call our office or visit us online.

Men’s Skin Care Tips

Tackle Acne this School Year

Though often left out of broader health conversations, there are plenty of skincare issues that directly impact men. We feel it is important to share tips that can help the men in our lives!

Here are a few ideas to help any man improve his skin routine:

  • Invest In Your Skin: When it comes to shaving, purchasing, and using a higher quality razor is worth the investment. Cheaper drugstore razors can increase your chances of razor burn and ingrown hairs, which are not only uncomfortable but unsightly. Also, spending a few extra dollars on some pre-shave shaving gel and some post-shave moisturizer will help prevent potential discomfort of the neck and face.
  • Apply Sunscreen: Everyone should be applying sunscreen every day, and men who might think they’re “too tough for goop” are no exception! Plus, it goes without saying that a bald head is very vulnerable to the sun. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined.
  • Get Your Skin Checked: Men over 50 have a higher risk of developing melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer, than the general population and early detection is vital. Be sure to schedule a full-body skin exam at one of our locations.
  • Take Care Of Your Body: Getting enough sleep and staying hydrated is not only crucial for your general well-being and mental health but are two huge factors in keeping your skin looking and feeling its best all year round.

Invest in your skin and update your skincare products. Our offices carry medical-grade skincare products to help you update your routine. Your skin will thank you!